Kyle Chandler Cast as Lead in The Vatican

The beloved former Friday Night Lights star will headline Showtime's The Vatican, a drama directed by Ridley Scott and set against the backdrop of the modern day Catholic Church.

Chandler will portray Cardinal Thomas Duffy on the series, the Archbishop of New York whose teachings are especially progressive and troubling to many in the Church.

He will be joined by Matthew Goode and Sebastian Koch as Papal Secretary Bernd Koch and Cardinal Marco Malerba, respectively.

“Kyle Chandler is one of the most talented and sought-after actors working today,“ said Showtime president David Nevins in a statement. “With Kyle, Matthew Goode and Sebastian Koch, Ridley and Paul have put together a powerhouse cast to anchor this incredibly timely show.”